Eyelash extensions have become more and more popular. We’ve seen them on celebs like Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, and –no surprise here- the Kardashians. But are they worth the time and money? And what is it really like to have eyelash extensions?
I went to Nash’s Lashes by Judy in Westport to find out. For a new set of lashes, I paid $120. They last 2-3 weeks and getting them filled ranges around $60. The process of getting them on was really weird. I’ve seen videos of it on Instagram, but the experience is so different when it’s you getting the lashes stuck to your eyelid. They glue the false lashes one by one to your real lashes and the skin both above and below your lashes along your lash line. The process takes an hour to an hour and a half. It pinched a bit when she put each one in, but it wasn’t painful! Nash’s also offers you a free foot massage while you get your lashes done. I almost fell asleep!
I’ve had them on now for almost a week and they are still looking really good. Here are some tips and insights I’ve found about the lashes that the Instagram videos and celebrities don’t tell you:
1. Showering is Weird
Lash Extensions and water do NOT mix well. The water weighs down the lashes so much. So, when showering try your best to keep your lashes dry. I know, easier said than done. FYI – you aren’t supposed to get your lashes wet for 24 hours before getting them done so make sure to shower ahead of time. Make sure you use a clean mascara brush to brush your lashes out anytime they get wet (and whenever you want to straighten them out a bit).
2. No Mascara Needed
Having permanent mascara on is seriously the best thing ever. I cannot tell you how great it is to hop out of the shower and not have mascara running down your face. These lashes give you the freedom to get caught in the rain, workout, and even cry when you have to, all while maintaining perfect lashes. The mascara experts at Nash’s did mention to stay away from oil based makeup while wearing the lashes. Water based makeup and makeup remover wipes are best to avoid weakening the glue. I have found that I can wear less makeup because the lashes do the work for me. But when going out, feel free to do your makeup as usual but now skip a step- applying mascara!
3. No More Raccoon Eyes
I don’t know about you, but I am that girl who always has mascara running on my face. I can’t help it! Whenever I get tired I rub my eyes and immediately have black circles around my eyes like a raccoon. The best part for me about eyelash extensions is that they don’t run! BUT be careful!!! I do not recommend rubbing your eyes with eyelash extensions on. One-it hurts because the plastic lashes are tougher on the skin that your natural hair follicles. And, two- your lash extensions will fall out! Trust me, I learned the hard way.
Overall, I loved the way the lashes looked. But if mascara and falsies bother you, and you do not wear mascara often, I do not recommend eyelash extensions. They aren’t heavy, but it is definitely a struggle not to rub your eyes. Keep in mind, although they are more lightweight than drugstore fake eyelashes, they are plastic and stay on for a long time. You cannot just pull them off. Again, learned this the hard way. Although eyelash extensions are pricy, they do look great and last long. Consider skipping out on manicures and getting your eyelashes filled instead if you’re on a budget. An added bonus is if you keep up with eyelash extensions you never have to buy mascara. I would recommend getting eyelash extensions if you are someone who constantly wears false lashes or uses mascara. These lashes are much more low maintenance than constantly applying your own fake lashes. Applying falsies just isn’t worth the frustration- let the girls at Nash’s Lashes do the work for you!